Rachel

Name: Rachel CrossFitting since: March 2012 (+2yrs PT prior with Graeme) How have you changed since starting CrossFit Maroubra (CFM)? I started training with Graeme after running a ½ marathon and realising that although I was fit, I wasn’t strong. When I started at CFM I could not do a squat, I could not do […]

How have you changed since starting CrossFit Maroubra (CFM)?
I started training with Graeme after running a ½ marathon and realising that although I was fit, I wasn’t strong. When I started at CFM I could not do a squat, I could not do a sit up (I thought a crunch was a sit up), I couldn’t do a strict push up, I couldn’t do a pull up, and I had never lifted a weight heavier than 5kg. Four years later I am strong and able to all the things I couldn’t before and more. Although I have to say, the pull ups are still a massive challenge. Does one in a row count?

What is your fitness background? What were you doing before CFM?
Having kids and mid-long distance running

Favourite WOD or movement
I like anything with Olympic weights, kettlebell swings and running. And I love the mobility both before and after the workouts.

Least favourite WOD or movement
What did we do today? That one! (I repeat that comment daily)

What are your goals this year? Where are you in terms of achieving them?
I’ve revised my goals after realising that 20 strict pull ups for me is possibly too ambitious. I did my first pull up on 2nd Feb this year, and can do 3 in a row on a good day. I hope to be able to do between 5 – 10 strict pull ups in a row by the end of the year. I also want to be able to walk 5m on my hands, and I made the halfway point yesterday!

Any best CFM stories?
There is nothing quite like doing 250 lunges (amongst other things) just before getting on a long haul flight to London (cattle class). Ouch!

What advice do you have for people just getting started?
Come and try it out. A lot of people are intimated by the idea of lifting weight and the intensity of CrossFit, but that is misguided. All sessions are managed by our trainers and you can work to your own level and pace. It’s amazing what you can achieve when you have the support of great trainers and a great crew.

Additional comments
I started training with Graeme outdoors before CFM was born. I have stayed with him because he has a great training style. He pushes you without you feeling like a failure, and every time I go to training I come out feeling good about myself. With Graeme and Lynn teaming up at CrossFit Maroubra everyone who trains there has access to so many skills. Lynn’s focus on mobility and stretching means that even though I’m pushing myself I know I am also taking care of my body so I don’t get injured. Both Lynn and Graeme have created a fantastic community of CrossFitters. We have a laugh, work hard and all feel better for it.